David,

>>SQL server views might be faster (especially if using partioning)...
>
>Why would you expect views to be faster than querying the tables and using "AS" clauses on field lists in the Select? Why would partitioning make a difference in view vs table?

In general, SQL Server views are not going to be faster because SQL Server just stores a view definition. When you execute your select against the view it's combined with stored view definitions and result query is executed.

>>Also another option is to use functions (like views but you can pass parameters) which are even faster IMHO.
>
>Got a simple example?

Look for table valued and inline UDFs in BOL. The query Anylizer has templates for both.